A Ghanaian physician, Dr. Albert Ekow Orhin, has brought pride to the nation after presenting groundbreaking research at the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona — one of the world’s most prestigious gatherings in digestive health.
Dr. Orhin’s study revealed that users of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) face significantly higher odds of developing peptic ulcer disease (PUD) compared to those who have never used them.
His findings, which drew wide attention from the global scientific community, suggest that vaping may pose similar gastrointestinal risks as traditional cigarette smoking.
The research, conducted using data from the National Institutes of Health’s “All of Us” Research Program, has already gained international recognition, featuring in top medical outlets such as Medscape and Healio.
According to Medscape Medical News, current e-cigarette users were found to have a 27% higher risk of developing PUD, while former users also faced elevated odds. Even after adjusting for confounding factors, e-cigarette use remained independently associated with the disease — a first-of-its-kind finding that raises new concerns about vaping’s impact on digestive health.
The study featured contributions from several Ghanaian-trained physicians, including Dr. Natalie Akoto, Dr. Simon Egyin, Dr. Teddy Ossei, Dr. Albert Acquah, and Dr. Dorinda Nelson-Cofie — a testament to the growing influence of Ghanaian medical professionals in international research and academia.
Commenting on the research, Dr. Laura Crotty Alexander, Professor of Medicine and Associate Division Chief of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep Medicine, and Physiology at the University of California, San Diego, described the findings as both “novel and impactful.”
“It’s the first I’ve heard of an association between e-cigarette vaping and peptic ulcer disease,” she told Medscape. “This study opens a door to start looking at the gastrointestinal system and highlights the need for clinicians to begin taking accurate inhalant histories from patients.”
Currently a Resident Physician at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Orhin’s journey reflects academic excellence and determination.
He earned his MBChB degree from the University of Ghana Medical School, later working at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital before pursuing a Master’s in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated with honours and was recognised for outstanding academic and leadership achievements.
Beyond research, Dr. Orhin has actively supported community health and medical outreach efforts in Ghana, contributing to nationwide screening programmes and advocating for health equity. He remains committed to leveraging his international experience to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system, particularly in preventive medicine and public health.
Dr. Orhin’s accomplishment at ACG 2025 underscores the growing impact of Ghanaian professionals on the global medical stage. His research not only advances understanding of vaping-related health risks but also reaffirms Ghana’s place in the evolving landscape of global medical innovation and excellence.
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